New standard signals make way for more Bluetooth fitness gadgets

New Bluetooth standards are being introduced that will make it easier for manufacturers to integrate Bluetooth into sport and fitness devices using Bluetooth v4.0 technology.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has finalised the standards that will primarily benefit cyclists and runners. The introduction of more Bluetooth profiles will enable sports sensors to implement the technology and be in a position to measure elements such as stride length, distance and pedal cadence as well as speed.

For example, cycling sensors that are paired to a smartphone or other Bluetooth device could be attached to the pedals of a bike, which in turn feed the information instantaneously to your device.

Though Bluetooth sporting devices such as Nike+ FuelBand exist already, the new running and cycling Bluetooth standards will make it easier and quicker for manufacturers to create new products. Sports enthusiasts will therefore have more choice in what to use when monitoring their workouts.